From waves to Wi-Fi: The transformation of ships to floating offices

How high-speed internet is revolutionizing maritime operations

Marine chief officer or captain on deck of vessel or ship watching laptop floating offices
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When we think of seafarers out on the open sea, we might not realize that they also have to respond to emails, access VPNs and databases, update their logs, and videoconference for work.

While their workplace is far from your traditional office building, it still needs all the modern connectivity as one on land.

Ships are increasingly operating as floating offices, and this unique work environment comes with unique challenges. From safety, to efficiency, to mental wellbeing and staying connected with their loved ones, or even just sending a simple email, the solution is connectivity.

Seafarers: The ultimate remote worker

Over the past few years, there has been a tremendous increase in remote workers and digital nomads, both of which need reliable internet no matter where they are. The necessity is no different for a seafarer – it’s a critical tool that allows them to do their jobs efficiently and stay connected to the world.

The maritime industry’s continued push for digitalization has only heightened the need for dependable internet access at sea. As vessels continue to go from analog to digital, internet connectivity is required for a wide array of shipping systems and applications. Navigation tools, cargo tracking software, and communication channels all depend on a robust connection to function optimally.

Scientists inspecting data on research ship
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High-speed internet is the linchpin that supports these vital ship functions, including;

  • Communicating with shore-based teams to receive updates, coordinate logistics, and resolve issues in a timely manner.
  • Accessing real-time information, such as cargo manifests, electronic charts, weather forecasts and advanced navigation systems to make informed decisions.
  • Updating logs and reports electronically to streamline administrative tasks, reducing paperwork and increasing accuracy.
  • Hosting remote meetings and video conferencing for efficient collaboration between crew members and shore-based teams, regardless of their physical location.
  • Conducting diagnostics and monitoring of vessel performance data to address technical issues quickly and reduce the risk of accidents and breakdowns.
  • Pursuing professional development training, allowing mariners to stay current with industry trends and improve their skills.

As you can tell, today’s maritime industry is based on a business model that relies heavily on digitalization, connectivity, and collaboration. According to our recent Inmarsat Maritime report, The Digital Wave: Transforming vessels into floating offices and remote homes, 93% of shipowners and operators said that always-on connectivity is extremely important or very important to have on a vessel.

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Home at sea

While being able to efficiently work from sea benefits shipping companies and increases crew safety, it also has the power to improve the well-being of our seafarers.

Merchant seafarers can spend up to nine months, or even longer at sea, often living in confined spaces isolated from friends, family, and normality. In recent years, there has been a push for vessels to be seen not only as floating remote offices but also as a ‘home away from home’ because a healthy and happy crew is vital in this demanding industry. Our Digital Wave report also found that 89% of seafarers said connectivity for downtime/moral was extremely or very important.

With limited downtime, having good connectivity can improve seafarers’ quality of life and often their quality of work. During hours of rest, crew members can prioritize connecting with family and friends through email, video and phone calls, instant messaging, and social media. Additionally, they may use streaming services for entertainment, browse the internet and read news articles to stay informed and entertained.

How Inmarsat Maritime enables digitalization at sea

Our commitment to providing fast and reliable connectivity enables ship operators and crew can do their job efficiently. Our Inmarsat Maritime business has recently launched a fully managed connectivity service that offers high-speed connectivity, unlimited data, global coverage and ‘secure by design’ infrastructure.

Delivered by a single provider, NexusWave is designed to deliver ‘office-like’ and ‘home-like’ connectivity experience at sea, along with the multiple benefits, such as:

  • Seamless integration with multiple high-speed networks in real time – Global Xpress (GX) Ka-band, low-Earth orbit (LEO) services, ViaSat-3 Ka-band, and as-available coastal LTE service - with an additional layer of L-band for resiliency – for fast, always-on connectivity.
  • Enterprise-grade firewall security trusted by global enterprises and governments.
  • Reliable performance levels regardless of the vessel’s location or requirements, while providing complete transparency on total cost of ownership – with no unexpected charges.

The future-proof NexusWave will also integrate the next-generation ultra-high capacity high-speed ViaSat-3 Ka-band service, following expected entry into service soon.

“At a time when reliable communications are a competitive advantage, maritime operators are seeking a value proposition tailored to their needs and rooted in high performance, certainty, and targeted outcomes. This is where NexusWave fulfils all those demands, and more. Truly a game-changer in maritime communications, the new solution gives our customers the confidence to operate on their own terms, globally, with complete peace of mind.” Ben Palmer OBE, President, Inmarsat Maritime, a Viasat company.

Our connectivity services are redefining the maritime experience, bridging the gap between the digital world and the open seas. By increasing safety, operational efficiency, and crew welfare, Viasat is enabling seafarers to do more at sea.

Want to learn more about the transformation of vessels into floating offices and remote homes?

Download our report here.